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Renault 20: a comfortable front-wheel-drive hatchback
The Renault 20 is a mid-size front-wheel-drive hatchback produced between 1975 and 1984, renowned for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. We'll look at the engines, trims, and what to check when buying this rare classic car.
Renault 20 in brief
The Renault 20 was the French manufacturer's answer to the need for a more luxurious yet practical family car. It's a five-door hatchback with a generous boot and notably smooth ride, which is considered one of its key strengths.
Today, the Renault 20 is a rare classic. It will appeal to those who appreciate the French comfort philosophy of the 1970s and aren't afraid to seek parts from specialists.
Which version to choose
The entire car was produced in one generation, but versions differed by engine and equipment. The main ones are the L and TL with the smaller 1.6-litre engine, while the TS and TX come with the 2.0-litre engine and better equipment.
Later, a larger-capacity petrol engine and diesel versions were introduced. Which versions were sold depended on the market and the year, so before buying, check the car's documents and engine markings.
Engines and gearboxes
The Renault 20 featured four-cylinder petrol engines of roughly 1.6 and 2.0 litres, with later models also offering larger and diesel variants. The more powerful versions produced around 100hp or slightly more.
The gearbox is usually manual, with 4 or 5 speeds, and some versions offered an automatic option. The soft suspension gives the car a smooth, comfortable character.
What to check when buying a used Renault 20
The most important thing is corrosion: check the sills, wheel arches, rear edge of the boot, and floor. Also, inspect the suspension components and shock absorbers – due to the soft suspension, these often wear out in older cars.
Check if the engine has no oil leaks, if the cooling system works, and if the gearbox doesn't cause strong vibrations. Electrical equipment and interior details often fail in older models.
The supply of parts is limited, so before buying, find out where you can get them, and check if the car has all the necessary documents.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trim levels found in Europe.
L
1975–1984The base version with basic equipment.
- Often – the smaller 1.6 l engine
- Basic interior trim
- Usually – manual gearbox
TL
1975–1984A popular version with better trim than the L.
- Often – better interior trim
- Often – more comfort equipment
- Most commonly, the 1.6-litre engine
TS
1975–1984A sportier version with a larger engine.
- Often — the 2.0-litre engine
- Often — better equipment
- Often — a 5-speed gearbox
TX
1975–1984The top-tier version with more comprehensive equipment.
- Often — electrically operated windows
- Often — seats with better upholstery
- Often — more comprehensive comfort features
Comparison of trims
| L | TL | TS | TX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For everyday use | For daily comfort | For faster driving | For maximum comfort |
| Engine (most common) | 1.6 l | 1.6 l | 2.0 l | 2.0 l |
| Interior | Basic | More comfortable | Better trim | Top-spec trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | €€ | €€ |
Most buyers should opt for the TS or TX, which offer more power and comfort. The smaller L and TL are ideal for those looking to buy a reliable car on a budget.
Pros
- Very smooth, comfortable ride
- Spacious interior and practical hatchback
- Rare, distinctive classic car
- Simple mechanical design
Cons
- Rust and worn-out parts
- Limited parts availability
- Not particularly dynamic by today's standards
Frequently asked questions
Is the Renault 20 still worth buying?
Yes, but the supply is very limited. Most remaining cars are in the hands of classic car enthusiasts, so finding a good-condition example requires careful searching.
How does the Renault 20 differ from the Renault 30?
The Renault 30 is the more luxurious version with a larger V6 engine, while the Renault 20 has four-cylinder engines and is more basic.
Is the Renault 20 suitable for daily use?
A well-maintained example can work, but consider the parts search, lack of safety features, and the maintenance needs of older cars.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
